Abstract:
This paper presents an adaptation of maintenance interval
de-escalation to line maintenance planning. The necessity to
optimize maintenance follows from a need to reduce line maintenance
visits that interrupt routine aircraft operation due to their frequent
occurrence. Further, frequent opening and closing of panels results
in significant wear and tear, and thus reducing the inherent reliability
of the aircraft. A simulation model has been developed to predict
the maintenance requirement of aircraft in an airline operating under
known conditions. Construction and validation of the model are
based on knowledge and statistical data of actual operations and
maintenance practices. The main use of the model is to group
maintenance tasks into manageable packages that can be executed
at extended maintenance intervals and within specified periods, and
thus increasing aircraft availability. The model can also be used to
vary and adapt line maintenance packages in case an aircraft visits
the hangar for non-routine maintenance. The concept of initial deescalation
of maintenance intervals is introduced and its positive
effects are demonstrated.
